Cook Belgian Brussels sprouts at home in 4 simple steps
Belgian Brussels sprouts are a delightful twist on a classic vegetable dish, transforming the humble sprout into a crispy, golden treat. Originating from a fusion of Belgian and vegetarian cuisine, this dish elevates Brussels sprouts to a new level of enjoyment. Perfect for those seeking an innovative vegetarian option, it's become popular among food enthusiasts looking for unique flavors. So, let's get cooking!
Gather the following ingredients
To prepare this dish, you'll need one pound of fresh Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved), one cup of all-purpose flour, one tablespoon of cornstarch, one teaspoon of baking powder, one teaspoon of salt, half a teaspoon of paprika, one cup of sparkling water, and oil for frying. These ingredients combine to create the perfect batter for your sprouts.
Preparing the Brussels sprouts
Begin by cleaning the Brussels sprouts under cold water to remove any debris. Trim the stem ends and discard any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Then, cut each sprout in half lengthwise to ensure they cook evenly throughout. This initial step is vital for achieving the desired texture in your final dish, making it crucial to the preparation process.
Making the batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt and paprika until well combined. Gradually add in the sparkling water to this dry mix while stirring continuously until you achieve a smooth batter with no lumps. The consistency should be similar to that of pancake batter - not too thick but not overly runny either.
Frying the sprouts
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Coat each Brussels sprout half in batter, then gently place it in the oil. Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding and maintain oil temperature, ensuring sprouts become crispy and golden brown. This should take about three minutes per batch.
Serving suggestions
After achieving a golden brown perfection, carefully use a slotted spoon to transfer the Brussels sprouts from the fryer onto a paper towel-lined plate. This step is crucial to remove any excess oil. Present these hot, crispy delights as a delectable appetizer or a complementary side dish, accompanied by your chosen dipping sauce to enhance the flavor experience.
